Skunkvine

Paederia foetida

Traditionally attributed effects: diuretic, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic; for urinary retention, bladder stones, haemorrhoids, inflamed spleen, diarrhoea in children, rheumatism and stiff joints, abdomen bloated by gas.

Safety notes

Traditional use is no proof of effectiveness; if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a medical condition, consult a doctor or pharmacist.

Preparation

Tea 12–24 ml; decoction 56–112 ml; cooked leaves on the abdomen; liniments and oils externally.

Use in traditions

Described in the Ayurvedic materia medica. Sanskrit name: Prasarini. The climber smells strongly of sulphur when crushed. In Assam and Indonesia (daun sembukan) the leaves are eaten and used for stomach complaints; in Ayurveda (prasarini) it is a remedy for joint pain and paralysis.

Applications

Use by tradition

How different herbal traditions describe this herb. Amounts are traditional guidelines checked for obvious errors; they are not medical advice. For poisonous plants no dosage is given on purpose.

Ayurvedic materia medica

Attributed effects

Diuretic, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic; for urinary retention, bladder stones, haemorrhoids, inflamed spleen, diarrhoea in children, rheumatism and stiff joints, abdomen bloated by gas.

Preparation and amount

Tea 12–24 ml; decoction 56–112 ml; cooked leaves on the abdomen; liniments and oils externally.

Ways to prepare herbs: Tea (infusion)Decoction Salve and balm

Sources

All herbs from Asia →